Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, professional mechanics
Advantage:
Provides factory-level detail comparable to official Bentley Publishers manuals, but in a more accessible digital format and often at a lower price point.
Accessibility:
Instant download allows immediate access for on-the-spot repairs, crucial for roadside or site breakdowns.
Usability:
Clear text, high-quality diagrams, and step-by-step instructions cater to both novice and experienced technicians.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, transmission (manual & automatic), drivetrain (FWD & AWD/4Motion)
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, EBD), wheels, tires
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), body hardware, doors, windows, sunroof
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, instrumentation, audio system, power accessories, comfort systems, safety systems (airbags), starter & charging system, onboard diagnostics (OBD-II)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, inspections), fluid checks and replacements, belt replacement, spark plug service
Repair:
Component removal and installation, diagnostics and troubleshooting, rebuild procedures (e.g., cylinder head, transmission), electrical component repair, body panel repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical system fault finding
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostics covering engine, transmission, ABS, airbags, and other control modules
Rebuild Procedures:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures with detailed specifications
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive, color-coded wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems
Engine Options:
1.8L Turbocharged I4 (AGU, AWW, AUM), 2.0L Naturally Aspirated I4 (ALT), 2.8L VR6 (AMX, BAP, BDE), 2.5L V6 TDI Diesel (BDG - rare in some markets)
1.8T Horsepower:
150 hp @ 5700 rpm
1.8T Torque:
169 lb-ft @ 1950 rpm
2.0L Horsepower:
115 hp @ 5200 rpm
2.0L Torque:
125 lb-ft @ 3300 rpm
2.8L Vr6 Horsepower:
200 hp @ 6200 rpm
2.8L Vr6 Torque:
207 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI/FSI variations depending on engine)
Transmission Options:
5-speed Manual (01M for automatic variants), 6-speed Manual (for VR6), 4-speed Automatic (01M), 5-speed Automatic (01V Tiptronic)
AWD System:
4MOTION (All-Wheel Drive) available on select models, often paired with VR6 or 1.8T engines and automatic transmissions.
Tiptronic Functionality:
Available on automatic transmissions, allowing manual gear selection.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver & Passenger - for applicable models/years)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for applicable models/years)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) standard on most models
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver & passenger), optional side airbags
Audio Systems:
Factory radio with CD player, optional premium sound systems (e.g., Monsoon), cassette player on some base models.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most trims.
OBD Ii:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) port for fault code reading and emissions testing.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (depending on oil type and driving conditions)
Timing Belt Replacement:
100,000 miles or 10 years for 1.8T and 2.0L engines (critical maintenance item)
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-40 or 5W-30 Synthetic (VW 502 00 / 505 00 approval recommended)
Coolant Spec:
G12 or G12+ (Pink Antifreeze/Coolant)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
G 052 162 A2 (or equivalent ATF like Pentosin ATF1)
Ignition Coils:
Failure of ignition coils and spark plugs, especially on the 1.8T engine, leading to misfires.
Oil Leaks:
Common oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, oil pan gaskets, and camshaft seals.
Suspension Components:
Wear and tear on control arm bushings and ball joints leading to steering wander and knocking sounds.
Window Regulators:
Failure of power window regulators, a common VW issue of the era.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure of the crankshaft position sensor leading to intermittent stalling or no-start conditions.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
Cracking of the exhaust manifold on the 1.8T engine, causing exhaust leaks and ticking noises.
Brand Focus:
Volkswagen, known for engineering, reliability, and practical automotive solutions.
Generation Context:
The B5.5 Passat is an update to the B5 generation, featuring revised styling (headlights, taillights, grille, bumpers) and updated interior trim.
Production Period For Gen:
2000-2005 (B5.5 generation)
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Varies by year and specific model, but generally received average to above-average ratings for its class during its production run, particularly for ride quality and safety.
Ancar Awards:
Some models and engine variants were recognized for value or performance by automotive publications.
